Framingham State University and UMass Lowell lead the state public higher education system in 6-year graduation rate gains, according to a new report from the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education.

Framingham State’s six-year graduate rate for first-time, full-time freshmen increased 8.9 percent between fall 2007 and fall 2012, according to the 2nd Annual Vision Project Report. The increase ranks second among all state colleges and universities, behind only UMass Lowell, which saw a 9.8 percent increase.

The Vision Report updates the state’s efforts to become a national leader in public higher education.

“We believe the goal of national leadership in public higher education is truly within our sights," said Richard M. Freeland, Commissioner of Higher Education. “Although it is still too early to see major movement in system-level data, this report contains powerful examples of campus work driving real change through innovations in teaching and learning, successes that we intend to bring to scale.”

The University has taken several steps over the past few years to increase graduation rates. Efforts have included revamping freshman orientation, placing a greater emphasis on graduating in four years, streamlining graduation requirements and increasing internship opportunities.

Governor Deval Patrick said the state must invest in its public colleges and universities to remain competitive economically.

“Brainpower is our signature economic edge, and failing to invest in that in Massachusetts would be like Texas failing to invest in the oil industry or Iowa failing to invest in corn,” said Governor Patrick said. “We know that in order to grow jobs and unlock economic opportunity we must put a college education in reach of all of our students. That's why we will continue to push to fund our public higher ed system at record levels.”

About Framingham State University

Framingham State University was founded in 1839 as the nation’s first public university for the education of teachers. Since that time, it has evolved into a vibrant, comprehensive liberal arts institution offering small, personalized classes on a beautiful New England campus. Today, the University enrolls more than 6,400 students with 53 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in arts, humanities, sciences, social sciences and professional fields. As a public university, Framingham State prides itself on quality academic programs, affordability, and commitment to access for all qualified students.